FAQ - Sutton Home Improvements
Welcome to the FAQ page for Sutton Home Improvements. Here you will find answers to common questions about our construction services and process. We aim to address any concerns you may have to make your home improvement journey as smooth as possible.
What sets you apart from other construction companies?
We deliver turnkey home conversions with a personal touch, bridging the gap between small jobs and major projects.
How can I book a quote?
You can contact us to schedule a free consultation for your home improvement project.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, Sutton Home Improvements is fully licensed and insured, including public liability up to 2 million pounds.
Home Renovations
Do I need planning permission for a refurbishment?
In most cases, internal refurbishments don’t require planning permission. However, structural changes, extensions, or work on listed buildings may need approval. We can help assess your project and guide you through the process if permission is needed.
Can I live in my home during the refurbishment?
That depends on the extent of the work. In most cases, yes. For full or disruptive renovations, temporary accommodation may be more practical — we’ll advise you on the best option.
How do I prepare my home for refurbishment work?
We recommend removing or protecting valuables, securing pets, and clearing work areas as much as possible. Dust protection and temporary adjustments (like alternative cooking or bathroom arrangements) may also be necessary.
What’s the difference between a refurbishment and a renovation?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, refurbishment typically refers to improving existing finishes and fittings, while renovation may involve more structural changes. We offer both — from cosmetic updates to complete reconfigurations.
Loft Conversions
My loft doesn't have enough headroom to be classed as an official room?
At Sutton Home Improvements, we've undertaken many of these projects. Without adequate headroom, during the sale of a house the new room cannot be classed as an additional bedroom. However all work can still be undertaken to current building control standards and there are no rules and regulations against this.
And remember people buy with their eyes.
Do I need planning permission for my loft conversion?
No, without large dormer window requirements, planning permission is very unlikely to be needed as most loft conversions fall within permitted developments.
Can I get an en-suite installed?
Yes!
How can I incorporate stairs into my current layout?
Every home is different, but we offer tailored solutions to help integrate stairs with minimal impact on your existing space.
Bathroom Renovations
Can I add a bathroom where there isn’t one already?
Yes, it’s possible to add a new bathroom — such as an en-suite or downstairs toilet — to almost any part of the home. There are complictions when it comes to the location of the soil stack, however there are solutions to this.
Will I be able to use my bathroom during the renovation?
In most cases, the bathroom being renovated will be out of action for the duration of the work. If you only have one bathroom in your home, we’ll take a tactical approach to ensure that any disruption — especially to the toilet — is carefully timed to minimise inconvenience.
What are the most popular bathroom upgrades?
Common upgrades include walk-in showers, freestanding tubs, underfloor heating, wall-hung toilets, LED mirrors, and improved storage. We’ll help you choose features that suit your lifestyle and budget.
Are there ways to make my new bathroom more eco-friendly?
Yes — we can recommend water-saving fixtures, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable materials that reduce your bathroom’s environmental impact without compromising on style.
My requirements don't fit neatly into a specific service, what should I do?
Give us a call! Most jobs are not simple pre-packaged products and require certain considerations or compromises. The best thing to do is arrange a quote!
Do I need to contact Building Control?
Nope! We deal with everything unless you want to of course.
What is your turnaround time for projects?
Turnaround time varies depending on the scope of the project. We will provide you with a detailed timeline during the consultation.
Garage Conversions
Do I need planning permission for a Garage Conversion?
For Garage Conversions, it's unlikely. Most integral garage conversions fall under Permitted Development which means there is no need to make a planning application. External conversions only usually require permission or change of use when the space is being converted into a self-contained living space like an annex or AirBnB. It's also a good idea to review your local covenants.
My local covenants doesn't allow exterior work at this moment?
This is where half garage conversions come in to play. In terms of full conversions, we often construct stud walls just behind the existing garage door, fully insulated, to create a complete internal conversion—without violating local covenants. If desired, we can also install a window once the covenant restrictions are lifted.
Will the bricks match?
Most of the time, our partners are able to source the exact bricks used on your home — and if not, they'll find a very close match in colour and texture. The most noticeable difference tends to come down to aging. New bricks and grout will naturally look fresher for a while. Repointing the rest of your frontage can be a great short-term solution to help blend the old and new as the materials settle and weather over time.
Do you do External Garage Conversions?
Yes, we do external and integral conversions.
Do you do Half Garage Conversions?
Yes, if you want to retain some garage space for storage this can be the perfect solution!
Structural Alterations
Do I need to take any precautions before having structural work done?
In terms of safety no. It's our responsibility to ensure everything is safe and secure. That being said it is important to note that there may be a period when the house is being supported by props, it's important to avoid tampering with any supports we put in place.
It’s also a good idea to relocate any valuable items and pets during the deconstruction process, and to cover nearby surfaces — as there will be a considerable amount of dust in the air.
Do I need to contact a structural engineer?
Nope! We take care of this ourselves with guidance from Building Control and arrange assessment from a qualified engineer if required. If you've already contacted a structural engineer, we can work with them too!
Will a wall removal increase my home's value?
Yes, removing interior walls, particularly load-bearing walls, can potentially increase a home's value, but it's not a guaranteed increase and depends on several factors. Open-plan layouts are generally desirable to buyers, as they create a sense of spaciousness and modernity.
Kitchen Installation
Do you work with kitchen suppliers?
Yes, we can help with the design process on your behalf, if you're planning on ordering a kitchen from an outlet like Wix or Wren and wish to have them install the kitchen, we can prepare the space for the date scheduled.
Got a specific question?
Leave a comment below and we'll get back to you!
Ready to start your dream home project?
Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.
Add comment
Comments